Darcy Pryor PSSD Trustee Candidate Subdivison One

1. Why have you chosen to run for a school board trustee?

I would like to continue being a Trustee so I can be a strong advocate for schools and education. I value meeting new people, connecting with families, being part of the school community, and being an engaged member of the school board.

2. What qualifications do you bring to the board if elected - these may include degrees etc but also life lessons as well?

I have a background in Child and Youth Counselling from Mount Royal College. My husband and I have two school aged children and before I became a trustee, I was a School Community Council member for numerous of years. I have experience as a school board Trustee since I was elected in 2016 for a 4-year term.

3. Why should people vote for you?

I take pride in my accessibility to the public and my capacity to advocate the public voice at the board table. I have gained invaluable experience responding to some of the difficult challenges the school division faces while learning more about governance and the education sector. I’m a parent of children who are in the school system and I’m aware of the current realities families and schools face.

4. What do you see as the biggest challenge in education today?

Some of the biggest challenges facing education is funding, classroom complexity and managing a pandemic.

5. Schools are changing with a very diverse student body - such as those of different races, languages, cultures, disabilities, sexual orientation, varying faiths, economic standing and others - how would you make the school system better so that everyone had not just the same opportunity but a fair and equitable opportunity to reach their full potential?

My goal for education is to see all students achieve personal success to the best of their abilities. Academic success and student wellbeing should remain a school division priority. I recognize that the personal skills and relationships fostered through student engagement and participation in clubs, sports, and activities contribute to academic achievement. I am committed to ensuring these opportunities are available and supported within the school division.

6. What role do you see a school trustee playing in today’s educational system?

A single school board Trustees’ role is to represent their constituents and to be the voice of the public. Each Trustee brings the interests and concerns of the families they represent to the Board table. The collective board works collaboratively as a governing body with the administrative team, to ensure the school division is moving forward in a manner that is best for all the students and families it serves. Trustees also advocate for resources and appropriate funding while keeping students first in mind with all of their decision making.

7. As a trustee you are elected in a specified district but in reality, you are a trustee at large and represent students throughout the division. Can you tell me if you are a rural trustee how would you represent an urban resident or on the other side of the coin if you are an urban trustee how would you represent a rural resident?

I would continue with my current practice. I listen to all stakeholders and respond accordingly. I was elected in a rural subdivision, but it is my job as a trustee to represent all Prairie South students, staff and families.

8. Moose Jaw is in the midst of building a new school on South Hill. Although it is a big accomplishment there has been concerns raised by some residents on various issues regarding the new school. Can you tell me how would you work with the community to ally those fears?

Since the new school was announced, I haven’t received any negative feedback from the public. I have attended every community consultation, visited with staff and SCC members. Everyone I have spoken with is excited for this opportunity.

9. What would you like the students to say about their time at school?

I would hope students feel they have received the best education while having meaningful connections with teachers and peers.